What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pulverized
Example
The rocks were pulverized into a fine powder. [pulverized: past participle]
Example
The machine pulverizes the coffee beans into a fine powder. [pulverizes: verb]
powdered
Example
I prefer powdered sugar on my pancakes. [powdered: adjective]
Example
The recipe calls for powdered milk instead of regular milk. [powdered: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Powdered is more commonly used than pulverized in everyday language, especially in the context of food ingredients. Pulverized is more often used in industrial or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pulverized and powdered?
Both pulverized and powdered can be used in formal and informal contexts, but pulverized may be associated with a more technical or scientific tone due to its use in industrial or scientific contexts.
